Chateau La Tour Carnet Haut Medoc 2005

"Shrewd consumers should be stocking up on this wine as it is both sensational and realistically priced. Once one of the most appallingly mediocre classified growths of the Medoc, this estate’s resurrection started around 2000, hitting its full stride in 2001, and proprietor Bernard Magrez continues to build on that success. A blend of nearly equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the inky/blue/purple 2005 possesses a beautiful nose of graphite, flowers, creme de cassis, incense, and a touch of new barriques. Full-bodied with crisp acidity, sweet tannin, and excellent definition and freshness, this sensational sleeper of the vintage should be at its finest in 8-10 years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030. "

91 Points

The Wine Advocate

"A pretty wine, with vanilla, currant and berry on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with toasty oak and currant notes and ripe, polished tannins. Best after 2013. 17,000 cases made. "

90 Points

Wine Spectator

"51% Merlot; 43% Cabernet Sauvignon; 6% Other. In the top vintages, there are always going to be bargains to be had in the best of the lower-priced Bordeaux, and this wine is certainly one of them. Its Merlot aspects roar through in aromas that are first and foremost oriented to red cherries and creamy oak, and the wine makes good use of its Cabernet Sauvignon portion to add in pleasing suggestions of currants and brambles. It is fairly high in tannin and will age for a decade or more. "

90 Points

Connoisseurs' Guide